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Lissara

Top 7 Natural Monuments around Lissara

Natural monuments around Lissara showcase a landscape shaped by geological features and historical significance. The region features diverse natural and man-made monuments, often situated near significant bodies of water like Strangford Lough. These sites offer insights into the area's natural beauty and ancient past. Visitors can explore a variety of natural features, from ancient megaliths to historical waterways.

Best natural monuments around Lissara

  • The most popular natural monuments is Strangford Stone, a man-made monument that is the tallest megalith in Ireland. It is situated within a 200-acre Country Park, offering peace and tranquillity.
  • Another must-see spot is Ringhaddy Sound, a river located on the western shore of Strangford Lough. It features unusual swollen hills and historical elements like a castle ruin.
  • Visitors also love Seaforde Gardens and Tropical Butterfly House, a historical site with gardens and a butterfly house. The historic gardens contain Ireland’s oldest living maze and a collection of plants.
  • Lissara is known for its megalithic stones, historical waterways, and unique garden landscapes. These sites offer a variety of natural and historical features to explore.
  • The natural monuments around Lissara are appreciated by the komoot community, with 8 upvotes and 7 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: June 26, 2026

Strangford Stone

Highlight • Monument

Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.

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Ringhaddy Sound

Highlight • River

Ringhaddy Sound is located on the western shore of Strangford Lough to the west of Islandmore. With its unusual swollen hills it is a real joy to cycle. Descend into the sound, and enjoy the atmosphere. A Castle ruin and Church sit further on the Peninsula, but alas they are on private land. It is possible to arrange access from the land owner however. There is also a Beautiful mooring with a Boat Club that has full facilities if needed.



Heres a bit about the Castle.

This is one of the most completely surviving tower houses in the county, retaining its gables and formerly an original wooden window. There were at least two main phases of construction at this site. The ground floor, which had a stone vault, dates from the 15th century, while the upper parts were rebuilt in about 1600. It is rectangular in plan with small turrets at the north-east and

south-west angles, one with the stair and the other with a latrine chute. There are large fireplaces on the first and second floors, and an attic in the roof. A distinctive stone rainwater spout projects from the east side.

The castle seems to have changed hands between Bryan McArt and the English in the early 16th century, and it is likely that the earlier castle was McArt’s stronghold, slighted when he withdrew, and rebuilt by the new English owner. Underwater investigation has confirmed the presence of a stone slipway beside the castle, and water transport was clearly of great importance in this location.

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The historic gardens at Seaforde are situated both within and adjacent to the old walled garden, whose structure dates from the early half of the 18th century. The hidden, micro-climate gardens boast Ireland’s oldest living maze and support a renowned collection of plants, collected from distant corners of the world thanks to the travels of keen plantsman Patrick Forde. The gardens also include an arboretum containing champion trees and rare species.

The Tropical Butterfly House is the atmospheric, jungle home to a myriad species of free flying butterflies. All peacefully at home surrounded by exotic and tropical plant life.

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Annadorn Dolmen

Highlight • Historical Site

The Dolmen can be found on the north east shore of Loughinisland Lake, within sight of Loughinisland Church. A slightly displaced capstone covers a rectangular chamber of which three side stones survive.

An early account suggests that this was formerly inside a large circular cairn and approached through a lintelled passage, so it may be the remains of a passage tomb. It is famous as the platform from which Thomas Russell addressed a crowd of United Irishmen in 1803, after the main 1798 rising.

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Delamont Country Park

Highlight • Natural Monument

Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.

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Tips from the Community

sm milligan
November 27, 2023, Seaforde Gardens and Tropical Butterfly House

The historic gardens at Seaforde are situated both within and adjacent to the old walled garden, whose structure dates from the early half of the 18th century. The hidden, micro-climate gardens boast Ireland’s oldest living maze and support a renowned collection of plants, collected from distant corners of the world thanks to the travels of keen plantsman Patrick Forde. The gardens also include an arboretum containing champion trees and rare species. The Tropical Butterfly House is the atmospheric, jungle home to a myriad species of free flying butterflies. All peacefully at home surrounded by exotic and tropical plant life.

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sm milligan
November 24, 2023, Annadorn Dolmen

The Dolmen can be found on the north east shore of Loughinisland Lake, within sight of Loughinisland Church. A slightly displaced capstone covers a rectangular chamber of which three side stones survive. An early account suggests that this was formerly inside a large circular cairn and approached through a lintelled passage, so it may be the remains of a passage tomb. It is famous as the platform from which Thomas Russell addressed a crowd of United Irishmen in 1803, after the main 1798 rising.

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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.

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sm milligan
October 25, 2023, Strangford Stone

Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.

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Ringhaddy Sound is located on the western shore of Strangford Lough to the west of Islandmore. With its unusual swollen hills it is a real joy to cycle. Descend into the sound, and enjoy the atmosphere. A Castle ruin and Church sit further on the Peninsula, but alas they are on private land. It is possible to arrange access from the land owner however. There is also a Beautiful mooring with a Boat Club that has full facilities if needed. Heres a bit about the Castle. This is one of the most completely surviving tower houses in the county, retaining its gables and formerly an original wooden window. There were at least two main phases of construction at this site. The ground floor, which had a stone vault, dates from the 15th century, while the upper parts were rebuilt in about 1600. It is rectangular in plan with small turrets at the north-east and south-west angles, one with the stair and the other with a latrine chute. There are large fireplaces on the first and second floors, and an attic in the roof. A distinctive stone rainwater spout projects from the east side. The castle seems to have changed hands between Bryan McArt and the English in the early 16th century, and it is likely that the earlier castle was McArt’s stronghold, slighted when he withdrew, and rebuilt by the new English owner. Underwater investigation has confirmed the presence of a stone slipway beside the castle, and water transport was clearly of great importance in this location.

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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day. Steamers Coffee Shop Serves a wide variety of refreshments, including full breakfast and lunch menus, great coffee and ice cream in the summer.

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Just about 100 metres further up the road is a mooring with a Boat Club, with facilities if needed.

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Maybrit
April 16, 2021, Strangford Stone

Beautiful Park with an incredible view and funny sheep.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of natural monuments can I expect to find around Lissara?

Around Lissara, you'll discover a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The region is known for its ancient megalithic stones, historical waterways, and unique garden landscapes, often situated near significant bodies of water like Strangford Lough.

Are there any prominent megalithic structures to visit near Lissara?

Yes, Lissara is home to impressive megalithic structures. The most notable is the Strangford Stone, which is the tallest megalith in Ireland. Another significant site is Annadorn Dolmen, an ancient burial site with historical importance, located near Loughinisland Lake.

What natural features can I explore along Strangford Lough?

Along Strangford Lough, you can explore various natural features. Ringhaddy Sound, located on the western shore, offers unusual swollen hills and scenic views. The area around the Strangford Stone within Delamont Country Park also provides beautiful natural surroundings and views over the lough.

Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Lissara?

Absolutely! Several natural monuments around Lissara are great for families. Strangford Stone, located within the 200-acre Delamont Country Park, offers plenty of space for exploration. Seaforde Gardens and Tropical Butterfly House is another excellent family option, featuring historic gardens and a vibrant butterfly house. Annadorn Dolmen is also considered family-friendly.

What historical or cultural sites are integrated with the natural monuments?

Many natural monuments in Lissara have a rich historical context. Ringhaddy Sound features a castle ruin, hinting at its past. Seaforde Gardens and Tropical Butterfly House boasts historic gardens with Ireland’s oldest living maze. The Annadorn Dolmen is an ancient archaeological site famous for its connection to Thomas Russell.

Can I bring my dog to any of the natural monuments?

Yes, Annadorn Dolmen is noted as a dog-friendly site, allowing you to explore this historical monument with your canine companion.

What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?

The area around Lissara offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including the 'Strangford Lough Cycle Trail' and 'Delamont to Ardglass Harbour loop', which you can explore further in the Cycling around Lissara guide. For hikers, there are easy trails like the 'Delamont Long Walk' and 'Lecale Way', detailed in the Hiking around Lissara guide.

Are there specific hiking trails near the natural monuments?

Yes, near the Strangford Stone in Delamont Country Park, you can find easy hiking routes such as the 'Strangford Stone – Delamont Country Park loop from Mullagh' and the 'Delamont Country Park – Strangford Stone loop from Delamont'. More hiking options are available in the Hiking around Lissara guide.

Where can I find parking when visiting these sites?

Parking is available at some locations, such as Seaforde Gardens and Tropical Butterfly House. For other sites, it's advisable to check local signage or specific access information upon arrival.

What amenities are available near the natural monuments?

Near the Strangford Stone in Delamont Country Park, you'll find Steamers Coffee Shop, offering refreshments. Ringhaddy Sound has a Boat Club with full facilities. Seaforde Gardens and Tropical Butterfly House also provides facilities for visitors.

What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Lissara?

Visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, especially at sites like Delamont Country Park where the Strangford Stone is located. The stunning views over Strangford Lough and the blend of natural beauty with historical elements, such as the ancient megaliths and garden landscapes, are also highly valued.

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